NORFOLK, Neb. -- On Wednesday, Wayne State's Growing Together CO-OP students gathered to discover Norfolk, and to interact with potential employers.

To kick off the events, students participated in Discover Norfolk. This was a virtual scavenger hunt where they took pictures of different businesses and locations they found downtown in an effort to connect with the community. 

"They can learn where they could be interning in the next few years, or during their summer as they get ready; just to help them do some career planning like 'Oh, that is something I might be interested in!'" said Angie Stenger, executive director of Growing Together.

Some of the students shared their insight on what they are most excited about in the years leading up to living and working in Norfolk. 

"You get to talk to employers before, you get to know them and you build those connections so you will have them not only when you graduate but upcoming..." Taylor Petersen said. "...During our fourth year," said Chloe Kaufman. 

Along with meeting future employers, students were able to meet other Norfolkans. 

"I'm most excited to meet a bunch of new people," said Karter Wolfe.

Helping students on their career planning was the aim of Discover Norfolk and local businesses. 


"We are trying to do more business events like this where employers can come and see their future workforce," Stenger said. 

To wrap up the day, Midwest Bank held a social with local business for the students to engage with as well as discover where they would like to intern and work in the future. 

Along with the social, they hosted a cookout with Wragge Dogs, snacks, and drinks where employers welcomed the students and gave a backstory on the businesses they could potentially work for. 

"I feel like it's been a lot of fun already just since we've been so involved and getting to network with other people," said Kaufman.

Many of the students expressed their excitement with the program and seeing potential opportunities for their future. 

"We're so excited!" said Kaufman and Petersen.

The fourth coop brings in 75 future northeast Nebraska employees.